Urban Retreat and Context

In a residential district of Dornbirn, The House Kaufmännen offers a quiet retreat for a young family of four. Set behind the street and accessed via a private path, the project gains a sense of privacy while remaining part of a diverse urban fabric. The plot’s second-row position allows for a sheltered living environment that balances openness with seclusion.

Efficient Design and Spatial Strategy

Driven by a strict budget and a preference for natural materials, the house was conceived as a compact timber structure without a basement. A separate garage reduces the main volume while creating a defined courtyard that enhances the entrance sequence. The layout is organized around a central core, minimizing circulation areas and maximizing usable space, allowing for both cost efficiency and adaptability over time.

Flowing Interiors and Flexible Living

The spatial concept emphasizes fluid transitions rather than rigid separations. Subtle level changes define zones, with a slightly sunken living area creating intimacy. Kitchen and dining spaces extend toward a covered terrace, forming a continuous living area usable throughout the year. A double-height void connects the upper and lower levels, fostering visual interaction and reinforcing a sense of spatial continuity across the house.

Material Expression and Atmosphere

A restrained palette of natural materials shapes the interior character. Timber dominates both structure and surfaces, complemented by lime plaster and untreated brushed fir paneling. In the sleeping areas, clay plaster enhances indoor climate through its moisture-regulating properties. This careful material selection results in a warm, clear atmosphere while supporting long-term comfort and adaptability.

Project Gallery